Office for Institutional Diversity

Grief and Sorrow

January 27, 2023

Dear Reed Community,

Today, we will have the details describing Tyre Nichols' death by members of the Memphis Police department. We recognize how these incidents weigh heavily on our bodies, minds, and hearts. Such moments are challenging, and we must find ways to process and make meaning. However, again, we recognize that this is hard. Please know you are not alone.

HCC's Counseling Services will hold Drop-In Support Groups for students titled Drop-In Support Group on Systemic Issues and Violence Impacting Mental Health and Well-being on Monday, January 30, 2023 2 p.m. - 3 p.m. and Thursday, February 2, 2023 2 p.m. - 3 p.m. at the HCC. All students are welcome. Registration is not required; just drop in. In addition, HCC counselors are available for same-day urgent and emergent mental health needs, Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed noon - 1 p.m.). Call 503-777-7281 to schedule an appointment or simply walk in.  

OID will hold a space for students to gather on Monday, January 30, from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. and Wednesday, February 1, from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the Trillium Multipurpose Room. In addition, OID will hold space for faculty and staff on Tuesday, January 31 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the Trillium Multipurpose Room. 

Communication about these events will be shared on the HCC and OID websites and posted on the Reed Events page

Additionally, we recognize these incidents might have a delayed impact. The Reed Care Team is available to provide non-emergency support for students in the coming weeks. Referrals can be self-made or submitted by any member of the community. 

As the violence of the last few days calls us together as a community, all are welcome in these spaces.  

In community, 

Phyllis Esposito
Vice President and Dean for Institutional Diversity